What's the reason for the transmission not moving when shifting gears?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission not moving when shifting gears could be due to the following reasons: 1. Automatic transmission oil pan leakage; 2. The linkage or cable between the control handle and the manual valve rocker arm is loose, keeping the manual valve in neutral or park position; 3. The oil pump inlet filter screen is clogged; 4. Severe leakage in the main oil circuit; 5. The oil pump is damaged. Here are the troubleshooting or elimination measures: 1. Check for looseness: Inspect the linkage or cable between the automatic transmission control handle and the manual valve rocker arm for looseness. If it is loose, it should be reinstalled and the position of the control handle should be readjusted. 2. Check for blockages: If only a small amount of hydraulic oil flows out from the main oil circuit side pressure hole, with low oil pressure or basically no oil pressure, open the oil pan and check if the oil pump inlet filter screen is clogged. If there is no blockage, it indicates that the oil pump is damaged or there is severe leakage in the main oil circuit, and the automatic transmission should be disassembled for inspection.
What's the issue if the transmission won't shift? I've experienced this myself. In manual transmissions, if the clutch plate is severely worn or not fully released, the car won't move. Sometimes, low or dirty transmission fluid can also cause shifting problems. Don't underestimate this issue—forcing it to drive may damage more components, leading to repairs costing thousands. I suggest doing a simple check first: after starting the car, press the clutch to see if it feels sticky; check the transmission fluid dipstick to ensure the level is normal. If something feels off, take it to a nearby professional repair shop immediately—don't delay. Drive smoothly in daily use, avoid sudden acceleration or harsh shifting, and perform regular maintenance like fluid changes to significantly reduce failures.
